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coupons.com's online magazineSun, 02 Aug 2015 17:00:25 +0000en-UShourly1The Best Places to Buy, Exchange, Rent & Sell Textbookshttp://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/buy-exchange-rent-sell-textbooks/
http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/buy-exchange-rent-sell-textbooks/#commentsSun, 02 Aug 2015 17:00:25 +0000http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/?p=92288Between tuition and dorm fees, college expenses can add up quickly. The cost of expensive college textbooks only adds to each semester’s expense, and on-campus bookstores are notoriously overpriced and under-stocked. We want to help the students in your family find textbooks at the lowest prices, so we’ve put together a list of the best […]

Between tuition and dorm fees, college expenses can add up quickly. The cost of expensive college textbooks only adds to each semester’s expense, and on-campus bookstores are notoriously overpriced and under-stocked. We want to help the students in your family find textbooks at the lowest prices, so we’ve put together a list of the best places online to buy, exchange, rent, and sell textbooks!

Where to rent textbooks

Most textbooks are only needed for one class, so renting textbooks online is a great way to save money. By renting for the semester, you’ll save a substantial amount of money and you won’t have to worry about re-selling your book after your class is finished!

Barnes and Noble, Campus Book Rentals, Chegg, BookRenter, Amazon, and eCampus are a few fantastic websites where you can rent textbooks at affordable prices. Many of these websites also offer e-textbook rentals, where you’ll gain access to the textbook on your electronic devices for the length of your class. Renting textbooks is the simplest and most economical way to access your textbooks each semester.

Where to buy textbooks

If renting your textbook isn’t an option, there’s a variety of online retailers that can help you save money. Buying your textbooks is a good option if you’ll need access to the book for an extended period of time, or if you’ll need to physically alter the pages with highlighting, notes, or class activities.

The easiest way to save money on online textbooks is to choose used copies. Half.com and Barnes and Noble have an extensive selection of used textbooks that are in excellent to extremely used condition, and you can also find great prices on used books at Amazon, Better World Books, Chegg, and eCampus for optimal savings.

If you’d like to purchase the book but don’t need access to a physical copy, consider purchasing a digital version of your textbook instead. E-textbooks can be purchased through Chegg, eCampus, and Amazon E-Textbooks. Amazon’s E-Textbooks offers X-Ray (definitions, extra information, and related pages in the textbook), Notebook (portions of the textbook you highlighted, notes, and bookmarks), and Flashcards to help you get the most out of your e-textbook. Plus, you can access any Amazon E-Textbook on the Kindle app from all of your devices.

Where to sell textbooks

Once you’re finished with your textbooks, it’s extremely easy to re-sell them online. On average, you’ll earn substantially more selling your books online than if you traded them in at the on-campus book store.

Half.com, Chegg, Amazon, eCampus, and Better World Books are four great places to easily sell back your textbooks for a rate based on the condition of the book and demand for the title. Barnes and Noble will also purchase your used textbooks, and even offers free shipping so you don’t have to worry about the cost of sending them in.

In addition to buying and selling textbooks, Better World Books promises to match every purchase from their website with a donation to promote worldwide literacy. You can also choose to donate your books to their website if you’d like to participate in their global mission!

Where to exchange textbooks

If listing your textbook online and shipping it off to its buyer seems a little time consuming, consider exchanging your textbooks with other students.

Student2Student matches you with other students on your school’s campus and arranges for you to exchange textbooks in person. This service is beneficial to you and your fellow students. You get to skip the pain of selling and shipping online, and they’ll get a great deal on a used textbook!

Don’t forget to check your school’s online forums for textbook requests and always share the books you have to sell or exchange on your social media platforms for optimal exposure.

Other ways to save money on textbooks

If you’re on a tight budget, there are several ways to creatively gain access to textbooks for little to no money. Most on-campus libraries will offer a limited selection of textbooks; however, each textbook can only be rented for a short period of time. You can also consider sharing textbooks with friends in your class or study groups for optimal savings.

Are you searching for more back to school sales, tips, and guides? Search no more!

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Save on Back to School Shopping Now

Creative Lunchbox Art Ideas for Back to School

5 Unexpected Back to School Savings

13 Back to School DIY Home Office Ideas

Easy Back to School No Bake Cocoa Puff Bars

A 4-Step Guide for the Perfect Back to School Beauty Look

How to Prep for the Back to School Emotional Impact

13 Ways to ‘Cope’ With Your Kids Going Back to School

Supplies and Demand: Five Ways to Save Money on Back to School

School’s Back in Session: Here’s How to Make Your Mornings Run Smoothly

]]>http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/buy-exchange-rent-sell-textbooks/feed/0The Secret’s Out: 13 Amazing College Student Discountshttp://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/13-amazing-college-student-discounts/
http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/13-amazing-college-student-discounts/#commentsSat, 01 Aug 2015 16:00:18 +0000http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/?p=92259Going off to college typically means buying a new computer, tablet, or both. Fortunately, many retailers offer special discounts to make electronics more affordable for college students. Here’s a roundup of this year’s college student discounts. Looking for a full list of all back to school-related sales? Check out our list of back to school […]

Going off to college typically means buying a new computer, tablet, or both. Fortunately, many retailers offer special discounts to make electronics more affordable for college students. Here’s a roundup of this year’s college student discounts.

Through September 18, they’re also throwing in a pair of Beats Solo2 On-Ear Headphones (a value of $199.95) with your purchase of an iMac, MacBook, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, or Mac Pro. Pay $100 to upgrade to the wireless Beats. Offer available in stores now and starting August 6 in the online store.

Verify that you’re enrolling in a qualifying school to get special college student deals from Best Buy. Deals currently listed on their site include $100 off a MacBook or iMac or $100 off the Select Surface Pro 3.

Check with your cellphone provider and see if you can get a discount on your service plan, phones, or tablets. Enter your school email (likely a .edu) to see if you’re eligible at AT&T, Sprint, or T-Mobile. Verizon is also offering $50 off when you add a new smartphone device. Just use the code VZWDEAL when you check out.

Need more back to school inspiration, guides, and tips? Look no further!

Back to School Sales: Save Big with Coupon Codes and BOGOs

Save on Back to School Shopping Now

Creative Lunchbox Art Ideas for Back to School

5 Unexpected Back to School Savings

13 Back to School DIY Home Office Ideas

Easy Back to School No Bake Cocoa Puff Bars

A 4-Step Guide for the Perfect Back to School Beauty Look

How to Prep for the Back to School Emotional Impact

13 Ways to ‘Cope’ With Your Kids Going Back to School

Supplies and Demand: Five Ways to Save Money on Back to School

School’s Back in Session: Here’s How to Make Your Mornings Run Smoothly

Julep products are creating quite the buzz in the online beauty community. From their famous nail polish to their innovative beauty releases, Julep is a new beauty line you’ll definitely want to check out.

We recently tried the Boho Glam and Poolside Beauty boxes from the Julep Maven subscription service, and today we’re giving you the inside scoop! We’ll share our Julep Maven review with you, and we’re also offering a chance for you to receive a free Julep Maven box of your own!

Julep Maven Boho Glam intro box

The Julep Maven Boho Glam intro box for July included three amazing nail products designed to give your summer nails a makeover. Each product is boxed in beautiful packaging, and the formulation of each is truly outstanding. All three products combine to create the ultimate summer manicure kit!

1. Your Cuticles Look Thirsty Fast-Absorbing Cuticle Cream

The first product in our July box was the Julep Your Cuticles Look Thirsty Fast-Absorbing Cuticle Crème. This cuticle cream has a luxurious whipped texture, and the formula contains a variety of moisturizing ingredients including honey, vitamin B5, salicylic acid, and shea butter.

One small dollop of this product took our cuticles from dry to darling in seconds, and the moisturizing formula reduced dryness without leaving behind an oily residue. This product is definitely a must-have for any manicure addict.

2. Brighter Is Better Oxygen Brightening Nail Treatment

​Once our cuticles were tamed, we moved on to Julep’s Brighter Is Better Oxygen Brightening Nail Treatment. The brightening formula instantly helps to hide discoloration on your nails, and lemon extract and oxygen technology gradually brighten your nails over time. We love that this product provides both short and long-term benefits to our nails.

3. Julep Jelly Poppy Nail Color

After our nails were prepped with the oxygen brightening nail treatment, it was time to test out the polish! July’s kit came with the Julep Jelly Nail Color in Poppy. This chili pepper red provides a pop of color to any summer look, and you can layer it to create an opaque and shiny red manicure. Julep’s signature nail polish is smooth and easy to apply, so your manicure is guaranteed to look great.

4. “Swatch Me!” labels

The packaging and formulation of the Julep nail polish line is spot on. Each nail polish features a handy “Swatch Me!” label on the top of the lid so you can easily find and select your desired color from your collection.

Their polishes are also vegan-friendly and 5-free, which means they don’t contain formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, camphor, DBP, toluene, or animal by-products. Who wouldn’t want to buy a nail polish that doesn’t contain those nasty chemicals?

Julep Maven Poolside Beauty Box

​We also tested out the Julep Maven Poolside Beauty Box, which contains two nail polishes and two moisturizing lip glosses. This fun box features everything you need to create a gorgeous summer look.

1. Julep Vicki Nail Polish

​The first item in the Poolside Beauty Box was the Julep nail polish in Vicki. This pink flamingo crème polish is the perfect shade for a day at the beach, and the opaque formula only required one coat of polish.

2. Julep Jahnavi Nail Polish

​​The Julep nail polish in Jahnavi was the second item in our box, and we’re enamored with this unique iced chai chrome shade! This metallic polish is trendy enough to wear for a night on the town, but the neutral color keeps it appropriate for days at the office. While we love this polish on its own, it looks amazing paired in a summery manicure with Julep Vicki polish.

3. Julep Luxe Up Your Lips Conditioning Lip Treatment in Poppy

​After we tested out both nail polishes, we moved onto the Julep Luxe Up Your Lips Conditioning Lip Treatments. The shade Poppy is a bright red with the slightest hint of orange, and it gives your lips a sheer red tint and lots of shine.

We also loved the Julep Conditioning Lip Treatment in Blushing Rose. This mid-toned, rosy mauve lip gloss provides the perfect berry tint to your lips, and it complements any outfit!

Both colors feature a cooling Zamac tip to soothe your lips and boost microcirculation, and the lip gloss formula contains pumpkin seed oil and vitamin E to give your lips a serious dose of moisture and shine. These lip glosses are perfect for soothing chapped summer lips and creating a pretty and polished look.

If you’d like to try Julep Maven, use the promo code SUMMER at checkout to receive your first box for free! You’re guaranteed to love their high-quality products, and who can say no to free beauty products?

]]>http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/julep-maven-review/feed/0Go Wild! 9 Camping Essentials for Your Next Adventurehttp://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/9-camping-essentials/
http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/9-camping-essentials/#commentsFri, 31 Jul 2015 20:45:17 +0000http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/?p=91699Camping isn’t exactly a hobby you take up on a whim. It requires a lot of advance preparation and inevitably a lot of gear. But the casual camper probably doesn’t want to invest a thousand dollars for a weekend trip. Here are some tips for saving on these 9 camping essentials. Looking for even more […]

Camping isn’t exactly a hobby you take up on a whim. It requires a lot of advance preparation and inevitably a lot of gear. But the casual camper probably doesn’t want to invest a thousand dollars for a weekend trip. Here are some tips for saving on these 9 camping essentials.

1. Tent

Tent prices range dramatically from $50 to $500 or more. Most people will be fine purchasing what’s called a “three-season tent.” You may also be better off with a dome tent, which are easy to put up and typically provide more overhead space.

Tent size is listed by the number of people it holds, but unless you want to be packed in like sardines, always add a person or two to your headcount.

2. Sleeping bag

Down-filled bags are lightweight and cozy but they’re typically more expensive. For most casual campers, cheaper alternatives will do just fine. Many sleeping bags are graded by degree. Even if it’s hot during the day, some places can get very cold at night so be sure to get a good idea of the low temps at your destination and buy a bag with at least a 10 degree cushion.

3. Sleeping pad

If you want to get a decent night’s sleep, then invest in some type of padding under your sleeping bag. The casual camper will probably be most content with an air mattress. They’re extremely comfortable, easy to inflate with a portable pump, and can double as a guest bed in the future. They’re a bit bulkier than other options, but that’s okay as long as you aren’t backpacking to your camping spot.

4. Flashlight/lanterns

It’s going to get really dark at night, so make sure you have a way to light up your surroundings. Headlamps are a convenient option but if you’re looking for something with a little more power consider a rechargeable spotlight.

5. First aid kit

Don’t head to the woods without it. Put together your own first aid kit with supplies around the house or buy a pre-packed kit. Check out the Red Cross website for a recommended list of first aid supplies.

6. Paper products

Stock up on paper plates, utensils, and cups. Don’t forget to bring garbage bags so you can easily follow the golden rule of camping and leave the campsite better than you found it. You’ll also want to bring your own toilet paper and soap. Campsite bathrooms are not always the best stocked.

8. Food

Avoid buying expensive camping cook gear by doing as much food prep at home. Hearty pasta and potato salads will hold up well in the ice chest. If your campsite doesn’t have a built-in BBQ, you may want to invest in a small propane camp stove. Foil packets are a great technique if you plan to cook over the campfire.

9. Water

Find out in advance if there’s a safe place to refill your water bottle or if you need to trek in all the water you’ll drink. You may also need to bring jugs of water to set up an in-camp hand washing station or for cooking.

]]>http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/9-camping-essentials/feed/0Money-Saving Secret: Your 2015 Tax-Free Weekendhttp://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/2015-tax-free-weekend/
http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/2015-tax-free-weekend/#commentsFri, 31 Jul 2015 17:15:24 +0000http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/?p=92233Here’s one holiday that might not be on your calendar: a tax-free weekend. Many states host these tax breaks in August when parents and students are back to school shopping. When you’re spending hundreds of dollars on backpacks, sneakers, computers, and more, this tax break can really take the edge off. Here’s a roundup of […]

Here’s one holiday that might not be on your calendar: a tax-free weekend. Many states host these tax breaks in August when parents and students are back to school shopping. When you’re spending hundreds of dollars on backpacks, sneakers, computers, and more, this tax break can really take the edge off. Here’s a roundup of all the states hosting a 2015 tax-free weekend.

]]>http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/2015-tax-free-weekend/feed/09 Campus Safety Tips Your Student Should Knowhttp://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/9-campus-safety-tips/
http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/9-campus-safety-tips/#commentsFri, 31 Jul 2015 16:00:25 +0000http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/?p=91644For 18 years, you’ve clothed, fed, sheltered, and kept them safe. Now they’re off to college. It’s an exciting time for kids, but it can also be a scary time for parents. It never hurts to go over some basic campus safety tips before they go. They may not love a safety lecture, but even […]

For 18 years, you’ve clothed, fed, sheltered, and kept them safe. Now they’re off to college. It’s an exciting time for kids, but it can also be a scary time for parents. It never hurts to go over some basic campus safety tips before they go. They may not love a safety lecture, but even if just a few points stick it could make all of the difference.

1. Keep their dorm room locked

A lot of college students get lax on locks in favor of an open door policy. Tell them to keep the door locked when away and especially while sleeping.

2. Hide valuables

Most valuables can stay at home, but inevitably students will have some electronics or jewelry with them that will need to find a safe place. Don’t let them tempt fate by leaving goods out in the open.

3. Guard personal and financial information

There are some things that should never be shared with friends and that list includes their social security number, pin numbers, and bank account numbers.

4. Make new friends wisely

Meeting new people and building new relationships is one of the best parts about the college experience. It’s okay for them to make fast friends, but they shouldn’t let their guard down right away. They should use their gut and make sure new acquaintances earn and deserve their trust.

5. Stay alert

College kids tend to zone out with their headphones and smartphone as they walk around campus. That makes them vulnerable. It’s important to stay aware of surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Encourage kids to always have a buddy on those late night walks to a cafeteria.

6. Don’t stay out alone

The buddy system especially applies when they head to a party. If all of their friends decide to call it a night and head back to the dorm, they should go with them. They shouldn’t stay at a party without people they know and trust no matter how much fun they’re having.

7. Have a health plan

Get familiar with the services offered at the on-campus health center. You may also want to look up doctors in the area that are part of your health insurance network as well as after hours emergency care. If your student wears contacts or has a specialty health need, you may also want to find doctors that fit that area of expertise.

8. Make healthy choices

The “freshman 15” is real! So it’s important you talk about living a healthy lifestyle. Many campuses are doing more to help students eat healthy in the cafeteria. It’s also important for students to incorporate some form of physical activity into their routine.

9. Speak up if something doesn’t feel right

A lot goes unreported because college students are scared to speak up. If something seems suspicious or makes your child uncomfortable, it’s important for them to know they can and should let someone know. Encourage kids to build a relationship with the Resident Assistant (RA) in their dorm, but also know when a situation warrants emergency measures like calling 911.

Looking for more back to school inspiration and guides? Look no further!

Back to School Sales: Save Big with Coupon Codes and BOGOs

Save on Back to School Shopping Now

Creative Lunchbox Art Ideas for Back to School

5 Unexpected Back to School Savings

13 Back to School DIY Home Office Ideas

Easy Back to School No Bake Cocoa Puff Bars

A 4-Step Guide for the Perfect Back to School Beauty Look

How to Prep for the Back to School Emotional Impact

13 Ways to ‘Cope’ With Your Kids Going Back to School

Supplies and Demand: Five Ways to Save Money on Back to School

School’s Back in Session: Here’s How to Make Your Mornings Run Smoothly

]]>http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/9-campus-safety-tips/feed/0Back to School Outfit Ideas — for the Whole Family!http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/back-to-school-outfit-ideas/
http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/back-to-school-outfit-ideas/#commentsThu, 30 Jul 2015 22:00:56 +0000http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/?p=91903Before you realize it, the school season is here with excited moms, dads, and kids ready to make everything special on the first day back. With school preparations in full swing, don’t forget about saving this important moment in family photos. Photo memories of your child’s first day of school make great keepsakes to show […]

Before you realize it, the school season is here with excited moms, dads, and kids ready to make everything special on the first day back. With school preparations in full swing, don’t forget about saving this important moment in family photos. Photo memories of your child’s first day of school make great keepsakes to show them later or to share with family. Once books and supplies are set, you can begin planning the perfect outfits for Mommy, Daddy, and your little ones to wear in your back to school photo session.

Here are a few back to school outfit ideas for every member of the family. So get your camera ready; you don’t want to miss this beautiful, adorable, and memorable moment of your lives!

Back to school outfit ideas for girls

Kudos to mommies and daddies who dress their kids well and teach their little ones the art of stylish dressing from a very young age. So to all such moms and dads, here are a number of cute yet trendy ideas for your baby girl’s first day of school photos — whether she’s in preschool or the fourth grade.

Photos aside, make sure you don’t choose a dress that’s uncomfortable for your princess. If you’re stuck on what to look for, you can opt to choose clothing featuring your child’s favorite cartoon character or something she loves dearly (like unicorns). Frocks with knee-length socks or a skirt and top are great go-to combos.

Now that you have her dress or top and bottoms decided, go for shoes that are comfy yet sturdy — you know how kids don’t like to sit still for even a second! Without a backpack your school preparations are incomplete, so find something in a color that’s cute, long-lasting, and goes well with most of her clothes.

Accessorize this cute little look with a girly hairdo embellished with tiny hair clips or just go for a ponytail. She’ll look perfect for her first day of school photo, and she’ll look forward to going to school and showing her friends her new outfit.

Quick tip: Go for darker or brighter clothing colors so you don’t see food spills or crayon marks when she comes back home!

Choosing outfits for your little man can be relatively harder than shopping for girls. To keep it fun and perfectly styled, take your boys along when buying clothes for them, especially when it’s something for their first day of school.

Choose items with colors that match the overall theme of your family photos, but feel free to let them choose clothing featuring their favorite cartoon characters, musicians, or athletes. Style a tee with chino shorts and a cap. Match their school bag with the look you’ve chosen for their first day photo.

What about Mommy?

Now that you’ve got your children’s clothes figured out, it’s time for mommy to pick her outfit. Choose something that matches the colors your kid is wearing. The whole family doesn’t have to be matching, but a bit of color coordination looks great in pictures!

Accessorize your outfit with delicate jewels and a watch. A purse isn’t necessary for your photo session, but treating yourself to a statement-making bag means you’ll have your things organized and ready to go as well as your kid’s things, too.

Quick tip: While saving money on your best buys, don’t ever compromise on quality. If you’re buying some high-end clothes, which can’t be brought at prices as low as $20, then you should look for quality offered with a guarantee. The best way to buy these products is to look for brands that offer a lifetime warranty.

For Daddy dearest

Dad should be comfy, too, and a casual button-down shirt in the same color family as your kid’s outfit works perfectly. Khakis are also a great choice for Dad since they can easily be dressed up or down.

If Dad prefers to dress up or if you’re going for a more formal family portrait, you have lots of color options for dress shirts. Suits tend to be neutral, so if you’re really going all out it should be easy for Dad to strut his stuff in a navy, black, tan, or gray suit and still match the rest of the family.

Once Dad’s set with his dress shirt — or suit! — pair it with a matching tie. If his dress shirt is neutral, choose a bold-colored tie that goes along with the color your family’s flaunting in your portraits.

Tips to remember

Frugality is a good practice, especially when you have kids. You don’t just have to buy clothes or other essentials for yourself, but for them, too. Search for stores that offer you great stuff at an affordable price.

There’s no secret to searching for sales. Make sure you keep checking your favorite stores or websites like Coupons.com.

You’ll be so proud seeing your kid grown up and making it on their own in school! Best of all, you’ll be able to remember this moment forever with photo keepsakes. What outfit combos have you picked out for your little ones’ back to school photos? Share them with us in the comments below!

Need more back to school inspiration, guides, and tips? Look no further!

Back to School Sales: Save Big with Coupon Codes and BOGOs

Save on Back to School Shopping Now

Creative Lunchbox Art Ideas for Back to School

5 Unexpected Back to School Savings

13 Back to School DIY Home Office Ideas

Easy Back to School No Bake Cocoa Puff Bars

A 4-Step Guide for the Perfect Back to School Beauty Look

How to Prep for the Back to School Emotional Impact

13 Ways to ‘Cope’ With Your Kids Going Back to School

Supplies and Demand: Five Ways to Save Money on Back to School

School’s Back in Session: Here’s How to Make Your Mornings Run Smoothly

]]>http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/back-to-school-outfit-ideas/feed/0A DIY Pedicure Kit — For Less Than $25!http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/diy-pedicure-kit/
http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/diy-pedicure-kit/#commentsThu, 30 Jul 2015 20:00:28 +0000http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/?p=91548We’re in the dog days of summer, which means it’s a must that your feet are sandal-ready at all times. If you’re on a budget, a pedicure at the salon twice a month adds up fast. Instead of spending that money, why not make your own DIY pedicure kit for under $25? We’ve got a […]

We’re in the dog days of summer, which means it’s a must that your feet are sandal-ready at all times. If you’re on a budget, a pedicure at the salon twice a month adds up fast. Instead of spending that money, why not make your own DIY pedicure kit for under $25? We’ve got a list of essential items plus directions and tips right here.

If you’re looking to splurge on some pedicure essentials, we’ve got the perfect list of 4 mani-pedi tools you can use to pamper yourself.

DIY Pedicure Directions

Combine 1/2 cup of Epsom salt, a few drops of an essential oil from your stash, and 2 quarts of warm water to create a relaxing foot soak. This will loosen dead or dry skin. For rougher areas, massage your foot with 1/2 cup of Epsom salt to exfoliate deeper, then rinse with warm water.

Use the orangewood stick to push back your cuticles and clean under your toenails. Next, moisturize your feet with lotion or a specialty foot cream like Blue Goo Cracked Heel Foot Softener.

Grab an emery board and gently file your toenails to your desired length and shape. Don’t use it to file the nail surface as it can thin your nails and cause breaks.

Use the buffing block to smooth the surface of your nails and remove any yellowing or staining from your last nail color. As an added bonus, if you’re in a rush and don’t have time for polish, you can use the smooth side of the buffing block for high shine.

Use the toe separators for a no-mess pedi — apply polish and you’re good to go!

]]>http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/diy-pedicure-kit/feed/210 Dorm Room Essentials for Your College Studenthttp://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/10-dorm-room-essentials/
http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/10-dorm-room-essentials/#commentsThu, 30 Jul 2015 16:00:00 +0000http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/?p=91479The beginning of college is an exciting time in every student’s life. College brings advanced coursework, new friends from around the country, and independent living. Moving into a dorm room can be quite a bit of fun for your student, but you’ll need to plan ahead when you’re helping them pack. We want to help […]

The beginning of college is an exciting time in every student’s life. College brings advanced coursework, new friends from around the country, and independent living. Moving into a dorm room can be quite a bit of fun for your student, but you’ll need to plan ahead when you’re helping them pack. We want to help make your or your child’s first year at school a success, so we’ve put together a list of ten dorm essentials they need to bring with them to college.

1. Antibacterial cleaning supplies

Even if your child’s a neat freak, chances are they’ll have at least one roommate who isn’t as tidy. While you’ll want to plan on them having an assortment of basic cleaning supplies, don’t move your child into a dorm without antibacterial spray or wipes. There are all sorts of nasty things floating around college dorms and bathrooms, so they should make it a priority to disinfect their space at least once a week!

2. Microwave

Even if your child doesn’t plan on cooking in their dorm room, it’s still smart to bring a microwave. Whether they’re re-heating pizza or heating up water to make coffee for late night study sessions, a compact microwave will quickly become their best friend at college.

3. Plates & silverware

Whether they plan on cooking in their dorm room or not, it’s always a smart move to pack a small amount of basic flatware, plates, and cups. Keeping these items in the room will help save money on food purchases!

4. Bath caddy

In most dorms, your new college student will be required to share a bathroom with either their roommates or the entire floor. Since the shower will be shared, it’s a smart move to keep personal bath items in their bedroom. A plastic bath caddy makes it easy to transport all of their hygiene products to the shower!

5. Extra storage

Dorm rooms are infamously tiny, and they’re almost always lacking in the storage department. Add extra storage in the closet or underneath the bed with a set of stacking plastic drawers. These small drawers are fairly inexpensive, and the extra storage will keep their room neat and tidy.

6. Rolling cart

Rolling carts aren’t on most college packing lists, but owning one will certainly make it easier for them to move things around. Whether they’re moving into their dorm room, bringing in groceries, or lugging textbooks home from the bookstore, a small rolling cart will save a lot of time and energy.

7. Mini fridge

The mini fridge is an absolute necessity for dorm rooms. If your child is hoping to share one with their roommate, think again. Individual mini fridges keep things organized and ensure that favorite food items don’t mysteriously disappear. Research dorm policies on mini fridges since each college has a different policy on the size of fridge allowed in dorm rooms.

8. First aid kit

Accidents are guaranteed to happen while they’re at college. Bug bites, paper cuts, and small burns are minor injuries, but they can quickly become irritated or infected without the proper care. Pack a basic first aid kit with bandages, antibiotic ointment, rubbing alcohol wipes, gauze, and common medications to prepare for small injuries and illnesses.

9. Laundry bag backpack

Laundry can easily become a disastrous affair in college dorms. The laundry room could be located across campus, and it’s harder than you might think to transport dirty clothes and laundry detergent across even short distances. Investing in a laundry bag with backpack straps makes it easier to carry large amounts of clothing, and your child’s hands will be free to hold their laundry supplies.

10. Closet extender

Closet extenders are simple devices that add an extra row of hanging space to small closets, and they’re extremely inexpensive. This small change to their closet will allow your child to store double the amount of clothes in the same space!

If you send your new college student off with these 10 dorm room essentials, they’re guaranteed to survive the year in style! For more dorm room inspiration for creating a cozy space away from home, check out our 15 creative and cozy dorm room décor ideas!

Looking for more back to school inspiration and guides? Look no further!

Back to School Sales: Save Big with Coupon Codes and BOGOs

Save on Back to School Shopping Now

Creative Lunchbox Art Ideas for Back to School

5 Unexpected Back to School Savings

13 Back to School DIY Home Office Ideas

Easy Back to School No Bake Cocoa Puff Bars

A 4-Step Guide for the Perfect Back to School Beauty Look

How to Prep for the Back to School Emotional Impact

13 Ways to ‘Cope’ With Your Kids Going Back to School

Supplies and Demand: Five Ways to Save Money on Back to School

School’s Back in Session: Here’s How to Make Your Mornings Run Smoothly

]]>http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/10-dorm-room-essentials/feed/0Blueberry Picking: A Fun Family Adventurehttp://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/blueberry-picking-adventure/
http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/blueberry-picking-adventure/#commentsWed, 29 Jul 2015 21:15:24 +0000http://www.coupons.com/thegoodstuff/?p=86963July is National Blueberry Month, and for good reason. Blueberries are a super food that offers us many health benefits, plus they make a delicious ingredient in many recipes. Your kids will love spending time outdoors in the field and eating fresh blueberries they’ve just picked. Seeing where berries grow helps connect kids to their […]

July is National Blueberry Month, and for good reason. Blueberries are a super food that offers us many health benefits, plus they make a delicious ingredient in many recipes. Your kids will love spending time outdoors in the field and eating fresh blueberries they’ve just picked. Seeing where berries grow helps connect kids to their food.

We’ve put together a fun blueberry picking guide to help you take your blueberries from the garden to the freezer to your plate.

Find a blueberry patch

Summer is peak season for blueberries. If you live in one of the 38 states that grow blueberries, take your family blueberry picking. Websites like Pick Your Own help you locate a farm in your area. Blueberries are super easy to pick, practically falling into your hands. You can pick up to 2 pounds in under 15 minutes.

On the drive home brainstorm the ways you can use the blueberries for meals. At home, let your kids help prepare a dish made with their treasure.

How to select the best blueberries

If you don’t live near a blueberry patch, don’t worry — local grocery stores carry fresh blueberries year-round. Half the year our blueberries come from the United States and the other half from South America. Here are a few tips for picking out the best basket of berries whether you’re at the blueberry patch or the grocery store:

Look for berries that are uniform in color and size

Avoid berries with brown spots

Tiny berries are more concentrated in flavor

Wrinkled berries are past their prime

Look for berries that are dry and move easily around when you jiggle the container

Blueberry health benefits

Need more reasons to love blueberries? They might be small, but they’re mighty in benefits ranging from boosting our brain power to helping us fight cancer. These are just a few of the benefits they offer:

Low in fat, high in nutrients

High in vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, and fiber

Decrease potential for glaucoma

Reduce heart disease, especially in women

High in anthocyanins, which give the berries their blue color and also help attack cancer-forming free radicals